In addition to kindergarten registrations, many schools like Grafton Elementary School also have screenings to show teachers and administrators how ready those incoming kindergartners are.

On Thursday, the Grafton School District began screening students.

“The screenings kind of give us a heads-up on how the children are being prepared to come to kindergarten, so the teacher can have a better idea of where the student is at,” said Carol Pohlman, a pre-K teacher at the school.

She and kindergarten teacher Ruth Miller were doing the screening, which include numbers, letters, colors, body parts and other basic information.

“It just really helps the teachers prepare for the fall,” Miller, who has taught kindergarten for 30 years, said.

Many of the tests are given as small games. Miller’s first screening was Aaron Maupin, who attends the school’s pre-K classes.

“He’s my first little guy and he’s doing excellent,” she said.

Pohlman’s first screening was Maylin Rheude, another member of the pre-K program.

“She is doing terrific, she is very ready for kindergarten,” Pohlman said.

Maylin agreed, saying “I just want to” when asked why she wanted to go to kindergarten.

Miller also added that the children coming in to kindergarten “seem much more ready.”

That is important because kindergarten has changed.

“It’s not socialization, or cookies and milk anymore,” she said. “We are reading and writing small paragraphs, and doing addition and subtraction by the end of the year.”

While the children were screened, parents did paperwork.

Andrea Pegran said her daughter, Jenna Pegran, was ready to start.

“She’s very excited,” Pegran said. “All of her other brothers and sisters get to ride the big bus, and she’s excited to ride the big bus.”

Screenings will continue at the school on April 13, and throughout other districts. For specific times and requirements, call the individual schools or districts.